Otherwise known as ‘delayed onset muscle soreness’, the pain in your muscles after a work out results from a build up of lactic acid
According to WebMD, the pain will eventually subside.
"It peaks within about 48 hours, and then it will gradually get better," says Ethel Frese from St Louis University.
But this doesn’t help your during those excruciating 48 hours!
To help things along, here are some ways you can ease those tense, tired muscles.
How to treat sore muscles after a workout
1 of 6Stretches
If you wake up feeling a bit stiff the day after an intense workout, start off by doing some gentle stretches.Stretch your hamstrings and your calves by bending over and touching your toes.Stretch your glutes by bringing your foot up to your bum and holding for ten seconds.If your arm muscles are feeling a bit tight, stretch them by extending your arm and pulling your hand gently backwards toward your wrist. You’ll feel a slight pull in your bicep.
2 of 6Diet
Eat a protein rich meal after a workout. Milk is a great way to get protein into your system following a heavy gym session or a long run.
3 of 6Sleep
Sleep is where your body repairs itself and rests your muscles. Make sure you have good quality sleep by turning off electronic equipment about an hour before bed and making sure your sleeping surroundings are comfortable- this means as little clutter and mess as possible and no background noise.
4 of 6Massage
If your muscles are very sore, book in a quick sports massage. Most gyms offer these for some cost, but prices tend to be reasonable and fair. It’s not as relaxing as a massage at a spa, but you will feel some positive effects.
5 of 6Ice bath
The cold temperature causes your blood vessels to tighten, draining blood from your legs and causing them to feel numb. The blood will also drain any lactic acid in the muscles, causing the pain.When you get out the bath, your legs with fill up with ‘new blood’ free from lactic acid. Then you should have nice, soothed leg muscles (if you can stand the freezing temperatures for five minutes!).
6 of 6Gentle exercise
Go for a gentle walk or jog the day after a heavy workout. This will help get the blood pumping and your muscles feeling like brand new again.
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